Everyone deserves to feel safe. This is not a privilege, but a fundamental right. That’s why the Allan Labor Government has launched Australia’s first Anti-Racism Strategy, a bold, five-year plan to prevent and respond to racism and discrimination across Victoria.

Developed through extensive consultation with more than 600 Victorians, including the Anti-Racism Taskforce, First Peoples, and multicultural organisations, the strategy sets out four key goals and the steps needed to achieve them. At its heart is a commitment to centring lived experience, particularly from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, to drive real action and meaningful change.

The electorate of Laverton is a vibrant reflection of Victoria’s multiculturalism. Our strength lies in the diversity of people who have made this community their home, and as our population grows, so too does our cultural richness. To support this diversity, the Allan Labor Government is investing in Laverton through the Local Anti-Racism Grants initiative, providing up to $150,000 in funding to build and strengthen local anti-racism networks.

We know that real change starts at the grassroots level, when local people take the lead in driving solutions. That’s why we’re proud to support the following initiatives:

• MiCare Ltd (Brimbank): Knowledge, Voice, Action: Multicultural Women Against Racism Program

• East African Women’s Foundation (Braybrook): Our Community, Our Strength: Confronting Racism and Building Resilience

• Malak Foundation Inc.: Empowering Voices: Raising Awareness and Improving Reporting of Racism

• Chin-Myanmar Community Care (Brimbank): Chin Community Against Racism: Awareness, Action, Support

These organisations already play an essential role in creating safer, more inclusive spaces, and this additional funding will help them deepen their impact and continue their important work in our community.
The Allan Labor Government remains committed to ensuring every Victorian feels safe, included, and respected. The Anti-Racism Strategy is a key step forward in our broader effort to eliminate vilification and discrimination across our state.

To learn more about the strategy and what it means for your community, visit https://www.vic.gov.au/victorias-anti-racism-strategy-2024-2029

Quote attributable to Member for Laverton Sarah Connolly

“Our community is strongest when everyone feels safe, respected and included. That is why we are backing grassroots campaigns who are leading the way in challenging discrimination and building more inclusive local spaces.”

“This funding reflects the Allan Labor Government’s belief in real partnership and long-term change by standing alongside community groups who are already putting in the hard work to combat racism in our local community.”